Sometimes a goodbye is a casual comment to a colleague we’ll see tomorrow. Other times we say farewell to a loved one we’ll never see again. The moments of transition that we mark with a see you soon, a goodbye, or a farewell can leave a lasting impression on a person. Click to the links below to read how these essayists have been inspired by saying goodbye.
Many parents can remember a specific moment when they had the thought, “What do I tell the kids?” Whether it’s talking about death and illness, dating and sex, or “bad guys” in the world, deciding when and how to talk to children is a delicate balancing act every parent must perform at one time or another. Click below to read essays based on a belief in being honest with children.
This week, we honor mothers everywhere—new mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, adoptive mothers, and mothers-in-law. The mother-child relationship is one of the most powerful and complex of relationships, and the following essayists have found that having a mother or being a mother inspires the deepest of beliefs.
Whether it’s a grandparent or neighbor, we have all learned to respect our elders. But do we listen to them and learn from their years of experience? To honor those seniors who inspire us and shape us, we present this selection of This I Believe essays. In their words and voices, you’ll hear the thoughtful wisdom that comes from living a long and fruitful life.
Now that Bob Dylan has finally picked up this year’s Nobel Prize in literature, we revisit essays written by previous Nobel laureates. From winners of the Peace Prize, to honorees in the sciences and literature, these essayists offer thought-provoking views on their lives and the world.
They keep our secrets, challenge our thinking and sometimes frustrate us terribly. But best friends are the people we know we can count on to be there with us through good times and bad. Click the links below to read how these essayists found their beliefs in a relationship with a special friend.
Most everyone says they’re for justice even if we can’t always agree on what exactly constitutes it. Is justice best defined morally or legally? How much is it rooted in fairness and equity? Who deserves it and who dispenses it? Click the links below to read how these essayists struggled with these questions as they developed their beliefs.
In honor of millions of African Americans who have struggled through the centuries to fight for justice, fairness, and equality, we are featuring the stories of pioneers who blazed the path for civil rights, as well as others who continue to consider the role of race in America today.
The brave men and women who serve as police officers, firefighters, EMTs and emergency room personnel help us at some of our most vulnerable moments. Their experiences can inspire a deep reflection on life that leads them to some compelling beliefs. Click the links below to explore what these first responders believe about their work.
A number of prominent African-Americans were featured on Edward R. Murrow’s original This I Believe radio series. Their words helped build momentum for the civil rights movement in the years leading up to the Montgomery bus boycott, lunch-counter sit-ins and the march on Washington. Click the links below to hear their inspiring words.
Although their biological dad has disappeared, Michele Weldon’s three sons have not been fatherless. Weldon believes the men who have stepped-in to act as substitute dads have generously embraced her sons with love and served as valuable role models. Click here to read her essay.
